Tips to turn a temporary Christmas role into a permanent job

Landing a seasonal job can be a way to experience a new company or industry for a few weeks, top up your CV and of course keep the cash coming in.

But if you want to stay on in a long-term position, how can you stand out in a crowd of other temporary workers? Here’s how to be seen as someone who deserves a place on the team long after the festive season is over.

Turn up on time (or early)

Top of the list of attributes managers are looking for is reliability. If you don’t turn up to your temp job on time, it’s unlikely you’ll be asked to stay on for good. That’s even if you outperform the rest of your colleagues during your shift.

Aim to arrive 15-20 minutes early to give yourself time to prepare so you’re 100% ready to start work on the dot.

Be flexible with hours

Not everyone can offer to stay an extra 10-15 minutes after a shift has ended to finish off a task or lend a hand when it’s needed. If you have caring commitments, no one would blame you for needing to leave promptly.

But if you’re able to, being flexible with your time can be a way to showcase your work ethic and commitment to the business you’re temping for.

You could also let it be known that you’re available to cover extra shifts at the last minute if anyone calls in sick.

Think how to go the extra mile

Yes, you can turn up to work and do what’s expected of you – no more, no less. But even in the confines of a short-term Christmas contract, there are sure-fire ways to mark yourself out as a keeper.

If you notice something that’s been missed, however little, take initiative and do it yourself or let the right person know. Or volunteer for trickier tasks that show you have what it takes for a full-time role, like helping to train other staff.

Managers who are faced with a heavy workload as well of the deadline of the year will appreciate someone who doesn’t only work their socks off, but also takes initiative.

Be open about job seeking

Let it be known that you’re looking for a full-time role - and don’t wait until you’re nearing the end of your contract to bring it up.

Ask your manager and the HR department about any roles coming up in the new year. As you’re already there, and proven, you could save them time by being able to step in quickly.

At HR GO, we always encourage our candidates to keep in touch with companies they’ve worked with in the past. The aim is to stay fresh in everyone’s mind so when a new position comes up, you’re top of the list.

Get to know people

Many permanent members of the staff won’t bother getting to know temporary workers as they’re just that - temporary. But if you can break the ice to build relationships it can pay dividends.

Forming professional friendships doesn’t just make your time at work more enjoyable. Get on with others and you’ll be viewed as a potentially good fit within the team.

Plus, even if you leave your temporary booking without a permanent role, your new contacts can keep you in the loop about other new positions in the pipeline.

Make suggestions

Your seasonal job can give you a ground-level view of how a temp team operates. Keep an eye out for ways things could be improved or made more efficient, especially if they’re issues management is unlikely to spot. Then towards the end of your contract, ask your line manager if you can pass these suggestions onto them.

Coming up with better ways to doing things is a way to elevate yourself above the others and show your potential.

Finally, be realistic

Many temporary contracts don’t lead to full-time work. So don’t be disheartened if you missed out after giving it your best.

Think positive: You have new nuggets for your CV, new contacts and - most importantly - some really valuable experience to help you in the future.